Set in Chicago, Dave Spritz is a successful weatherman who gets a golden opportunity to move to New York City as a new weatherman on a national morning show like the Today Show. Relocating will increase his salary. Suddenly, he receives bad news that his father’s diagnosed with lymphoma and only a few months to live. He becomes depressed developing an existential crisis. Dave tries to connect with his children and hopes to reconcile with his ex-wife before he moves to the Big Apple.
Released in 2005, (same year Corpse Bride came out) “The Weather Man earned mixed to positive reviews from critics and movie goers alike. However, it was a commercial flop earning $19 million failing to recoup its $22 million budget. Anyway, I have one legit reason why I wanna share my opinion on The Weather Man. Nicolas “Nic” Cage will attend Fan Expo Dallas 2026 on September 12-13. Which is Saturday and Sunday. I got plans to take my pic with Nic. I’m also gonna take pics with Elijah Wood, Sean Astin & Charlie Sheen.
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS. I’m giving you a chance to see this underrated gem.
Warm & Chilly Aspects
Warm: Nicolas “Nic” Cage did a fantastic job for his performance. He also provides narration.
Other Cast Members such as Michael Caine, Hope Davis and young Nicholas Hoult all did a decent job for their respective performances.
Gore Verbinski (Pirates of the Caribbean 1-3, The Ring, Rango) did a good job directing.
Steven Conrad (The Pursuit of Happyness, Wonder, DTF St. Louis) wrote the script.
Hans Zimmer (Gladiator, Interstellar, Dune movies) orchestrated the soundtrack.
Cinematography’s shot in stable condition.
The Tone has a steady balance between seriousness and comedy. Heck, the jokes are well written than “Fantastic Four.” The one with Jessica Alba.
Pacing wasn’t a slow burn. I was hooked since the opening scene.
Dave’s chemistry with his father, ex-wife and kids serve as the main highlight.
We learn about Dave’s background. For instance, a reason why he got separated from his ex.
Character Development involving Dave. As the film progresses, he begins to mature.
Primary Themes are Family, Fatherhood, Depression, Separation, Regret, Loneliness, Hope & Acceptance. Each one’s handled maturely.
Fun Facts
- The film takes place in Chicago. That’s where Christopher “Chris” Nolan’s grew up besides residing in the United Kingdom. Speaking of Chris, Mr. Caine first collaborated with my favorite filmmaker in “Batman Begins.” Coincidentally, came out the exact same year as The Weather Man.
- Nic mentioned his portrayal of Dave actually reflects his professional and personal life. Like his character, he changed his last name from Coppola to Cage to avoid nepotism around his uncle, Francis Ford Coppola, fast food thrown at him are reactions from bad movies, divorce with Patricia Arquette and relationship with is father, August.
- Both Mr. Cage & Mr. Hoult collaborated in “Renfield.” This time, the latter play’s Dracula’s titular henchman.
Random Thought: I consider The Weather Man as Nic’s best film in the 2000s along with “Matchstick Men,” “National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets” & Adaptation.”
Chilly: Product Placement featuring brands such as McDonald’s, 7-11, Arby’s, Dairy Queen, Taco Bell, Pepsi, Wendy’s & Burger King. I’ll let this con slide. None of ‘em didn’t feel forced or blatant. They serve a purpose regarding Dave’s public image. People despise him over inaccurate weather predictions by throwing fast food at Dave.
I couldn’t find nothing wrong. I’m giving the cast and crew an Extra Point for making a flawless dramedy as possible.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!
The Weather Man is an underrated modern masterpiece. Some of the positive aspects indicates why this film deserves more attention. If you’re a fan of Nicolas Cage’s work, I strongly recommend it. Which films starring Mr. Cage should I review next? Please leave a comment.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 